May 24, 2011

Seashells and Hydrangeas...

Twenty years ago, we used to receive shell-encrusted gifts from Handsome's Florida aunt, Eula. I really liked getting those shell gifts, but we always used to giggle about them. "Silly Aunt Eula sent something seashell again!"

After we moved here, I saw the appeal of those pieces, but I also thought it might be fun to create my own. So I went hunting for the perfect basket for my transformation and found this one already in one of our other rooms.It had a slightly domed, large lid which I determined would withstand the weight of all those shells. Of course, I'd require seashells, too. I found the types and sizes I was going to need and then sorted them.I had assembled an assortment of shell types and then separated them according to size and type. It didn't take all day to make this, either. I actually completed in a few hours.I secured them to the basket with Golden matte gel medium and it worked really well. I began in the center and worked my way out, just gluing as a went. The final pieces were the center shell and starfish. I'm really happy with the way it turned out!

The hydrangeas have a special beauty that reminds me of Nantucket. These are artificial, but hey! I can just spray them and they sorta smell like real flowers! Both of these creations sit on shelves in our living room, so I can see them whenever I walk to or through the room. They make me very happy.

What makes you happy? Have fun leaving - and then reading - other people's color issue.

Dee, I have never thought of shells in this way but you make it look so beautiful!!! What a gorgeous basket, what did you plan on keeping inside? It would make a lovely sewing basket!!!How's the quilting coming along? I love to see what you have been working on, I do get inspired by all the wonderful fabric you use!!!Hugs,Magsxxx

Your basket is beautiful. How funny that we mature and only then can appreciate Aunt Eula's love of seashell Floridian gifts. I would have to make a picnic for you and Handsome and then go to some wonderful outdoor spot by the ocean and enjoy the time with nature. Lovely job Miss Donna...